Wavemakers is an initiative I've kickstarted with Femme-O-Nomics’ founder Leah Eichler (@Femmeonomics) that profiles female innovators — women who are constantly blazing new trails, inspiring others and revolutionizing the status quo.
Please meet Susan and Sarah Solovay.
Susan Shaffer Solovay enjoyed a 25 year career on Wall Street which began in commodities trading and institutional brokerage, led to hedge fund allocation on behalf a significant family office and concluded with the founding and management of Pomegranate Capital, a fund of funds focused on allocating capital to women run hedge funds. She also organized and ran the PS 6 Alumni Foundation, a not for profit corporation which rebuilt the library, playground and science roof at a public elementary school. She is currently focused on assisting early stage companies in developing their brand, fundraising and building their online presence. Susan lives in NYC with her husband, 2 children and an adorable Mini-Labradoodle named Lola.
Sarah Solovay is an 18-year old American singer and songwriter who opened for John Mayer and had her song, “Hearts Collide” on the 90210 soundtrack in 2009. You can find out more about Sarah through her Twitter, Facebook or Tumblr. If you want to take a listen to Sarah’s work, here’s her EP, “Superhuman,” on iTunes.
1. Describe your current state of mind
Susan: August, is always bittersweet to me. I’m a little sad that summer is over and this summer, more so than ever as Sarah leaves for College. However, I’m excited for her and all the possibilities that lie ahead.
Sarah: I leave for college in a little over two weeks, so I’m currently half-excited and half-terrified. The good news is that I’ve been told that’s normal.
2. If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
Susan: Mrs. Fields, (I’ve always wanted my own cookie empire) or Tom Petty (he’s an amazing artist and has tons of swagger.)
Sarah: I’d love to be a Supreme Court Justice, a President, an Olympic athlete or a five-time Grammy or Oscar winner. I want to be able to say I’m the best–or at least one of the best–at something.
3. What is your greatest indulgence?
Susan: The Internet. When I’m online, sometimes my curiosity gets the best of me and before I know it, I’m learning about some random subject or reading an interesting blog, both which are fun, but ultimately take up too much time.
Sarah: It’s a tie between Gilmore Girls and raw cookie dough.
4. What or who helped you the most to achieve your success?
Susan: Besides my husband, who has always been a great supporter, my mom. She brought us up in a very creative environment that allowed and encouraged my brothers and I to explore our passions, believe in ourselves and to take risks.
Sarah: This question’s easy–my mom. No one is more supportive and understanding than she is. None of the things I’ve accomplished to date–musical and otherwise–would have been possible without her.
5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Susan: Live each day to its fullest and never send your kids to summer camp unless they are begging you to go! Also, marry someone with a good sense of humor.
Sarah: Someone once told me “Take what you need and leave the rest.” I’ve found those are pretty good words to live by.
Nice interview! The girls are my heroes and models to follow. They can change the world with their courage and ambitions
Posted by: Lily Dexter | September 13, 2012 at 04:03 AM